Self-care isn’t selfish. It’s essential. For you to show up as your best self in your life and be able to give to others, you have to first fill up your own cup. And it’s not just about taking care of yourself physically, self-care is also important for your mental and emotional wellbeing. It helps you manage stress, shifts your perspective to a more positive place, boosts your self-esteem, and even improves your overall health.
To celebrate Self-Care Awareness Month this September, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite self-care rituals that will do wonders for your mental health.
Check-in with yourself
This seems like a very obvious thing to do but so often we get caught up with our long to-do lists and responsibilities that we forget to ask ourselves how we’re feeling. Make it a daily morning ritual to check in with yourself. See how you're feeling and ask yourself what you need to feel recharged and nourished on all levels that day.
Have self-compassion
Oftentimes, our minds are our own worst enemies. We can be very hard on ourselves, especially under a lot of stress. Practice self-compassion. You are always doing the best you can and that is enough. Also, be mindful about the words you say to yourself. Negative words will only make you feel worse. Kind, positive words will put you in a better headspace.
Pamper yourself
Slowing down and just relaxing is a big element of self-care. Sometimes that might look like binge watching your favorite Netflix show on the couch. Other times, it might be an at-home spa day complete with a soothing bath and a refreshing Facial Sheet Mask. It’s impossible to not feel like your best self with clear, glowing skin.
Set boundaries
Self-care isn’t just about doing the things that make you feel good, it’s also about not doing the things that make you feel bad. Don’t be afraid to set your boundaries. Express them fully and remember that no is a complete sentence. You don’t have to provide explanations as to why you don’t want to do something. The people that truly care about you will understand.
Forgive yourself
Forgiveness is a very powerful self-care ritual. No matter what mistakes you’ve made in the past, holding onto them makes you feel heavy and hinders you from moving forward. Let it all go. Wipe the slate clean. This will nourish you and liberate you in every area—mind, body, and soul.
Connect with others
Sure we all need our alone time to recharge, but it’s also very beneficial for our mental health to have a support system. Whether that’s a therapist, a life coach, or a BFF, reach out to someone that will make you feel safe, seen, and heard. You don’t have to do it all alone.
Start a gratitude practice
Practicing gratitude will instantly shift your mindset to a happier place. It forces you to stop focusing on what’s not going right onto what is already great in your life. Start your gratitude practice by writing down 10 things you’re grateful for every morning to kick off your day on a positive note. And don’t just write the words but actually feel the emotion of gratitude wash over you.